Chain tension and coolant top up

[Suzuki_mike]

Hi all
Grateful for advice on these 2 maintenance issues. I'm new to biking and want to learn to do the basics myself but its slow going! I have a 2016 vstrom 650 xt.
Firstly chain tension. I've measured this at 1.5 inches and the manual says 0.8 to 1.2. How much, if any, give is there in the manual range before things start getting problematic. I havent a garage or the tools to move the back wheel myself so would need to take it to a mechanic.
Secondly, I was kind of horrified to see from the manual that to top up the coolant you need to take the whole tank off. Is this really true or was this slipped in as an april fool and was never taken out!! My coolant level is fine at the moment but I'm dreading the time it slips down to that lower mark. Seriously, how often might the coolant need topping up?? Out of interest, Is the vstrom alone in having this seemingly insane process for topping up the coolant or are there lots of bikes like this?
Advice and views on both matters gratefully received.

[Tigerjohn]

Have a look at this thread:
https://www.v-strom.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=37549.msg379481#msg379481

[user650]

All the tools you need should be under the seat in the standard tool kit to adjust the chain tension. 

[Brockett]

The chain slack should be within the range shown. In this case 0.8 to 1.2. If the slack is less than the lower range it will wear faster than it should. If it is above the high range it will wear the slider on the swing arm and then start on the swing arm. Aim for 1" ( inch) which is the middle of the range. Also, mark your chain so you can see a full rotation. Then wheel the bike back and forth and measure the chain slack 8 of 10 times. Sometimes a chain can have tight spots and slack spots. You may find the chain is within the range but with some areas almost at the upper and others at the lower ends. In which case lube it and leave it alone. Then save up for chain and sprocket set.
For working outside I suggest you take a table maybe one of those lightweight wall papering jobs that fold down flat. As you work on the bike you can put whatever you take off on the table and not on the gritty ground. Failing that a pair of tressles and a plank between would do. 

[Suzuki_mike]

Thank you very much Brockett....

[oslin]

Good Advise, but also do not forget to line up the distance marks on each side of the swing arm you do not want the wheel to be out of line

[Mr Nick]

The marks are a fair indication but can be a little bit out: for peace of mind, spend a few pounds on a basic alignment tool like this. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Heavy-Duty-Universal-Chain-Sprocket-Alignment-Tool-For-Motorcycle-Motorbike/293591625356?hash=item445b6cae8c:g:k~wAAOSwjZZe8vQ7
Just remember to take it off before to spin the wheel to check it...

[Joe Rocket]

I always check the dimension each side from the rectangular plate on the axle to the end of the swing arm/adjuster. I use a metal rule usually but I have used a vernier caliper too. Very precise.

[Suzuki_mike]

Many thanks for all your pointers friends.

[Mr Nick]

I have used a vernier caliper too. Very precise.

Very near indeed...
Is that my coat?

[sjrainsford]

Regarding the coolant, it should never need topping up.  If it does, then that normally means there's another issue - so not such a problem to get the tank off then anyway.  But I believe it can just about be done without.

[cb1300rider]

https://www.youtube.com/c/DrVstrom

Take a look here too, some excellent tutorial videos.  I've used these many times.

[welldc]

As another newbie, I found the videos a big help.
Much easier to watch someone doing the job than trying to follow written instructions. Also shows some of the best tecniques and things to watch out for.